HD Hyundai Heavy Industries provided operational support for the launch pad system during the fifth launch of the Nuri rocket (KSLV-II) on October 7.
In this launch, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries was responsible for pre-launch inspections and tests, as well as the operation of the launch pad system. The company, which designed, manufactured, and constructed the Nuri launch pad system, also supported the operations for the previous four launches.
Prior to this launch, key facilities, including the launch pad and the Vehicle Ground Support Equipment (VHD), were repaired after being exposed to flames and high temperatures during the fourth launch. Various sensors and control and measurement equipment were also checked to ensure the overall performance and condition of the launch pad system.
Based on its experience designing, manufacturing, and operating the launch pad system for Korea's first space launch vehicle, the Naro (KSLV-I), HD Hyundai Heavy Industries secured the contract for the 'Korean Launch Pad System' for the Nuri rocket from the Korea Aerospace Research Institute in 2016.
While the Naro was a two-stage rocket measuring 33.5 meters in length and weighing 140 tons, the Nuri rocket is a larger three-stage vehicle, measuring 47.2 meters and weighing 200 tons. Consequently, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries constructed a dedicated second launch pad for the Nuri rocket, separate from the existing first launch pad for the Naro.
The second launch pad was completed in 2020, featuring three underground levels and a total floor area of approximately 6,000 square meters. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries independently designed, manufactured, and installed the entire launch pad system, including civil and architectural works, ground mechanical systems (MGSE), propellant supply systems (FGSE), and launch control systems (EGSE), and also managed the launch operations.
The domestic production rate of the Nuri launch pad system's process technology is 100%. This achievement has established a framework for building and operating space launch infrastructure using domestic technology.
HD Hyundai Heavy Industries is expanding its experience in designing, manufacturing, constructing, and operating launch pads from the Naro and Nuri projects into the next-generation launch vehicle sector. In September, the company was selected as the preferred bidder for the 'Detailed Design Technical Service for Next-Generation Launch Vehicle Launch Pad System' by the Korea Aerospace Research Institute.
The next-generation launch vehicle is expected to be developed to a height of approximately 70.8 meters and a weight of about 530.6 tons. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries plans to pursue contracts for the production and construction of the next-generation launch pad system and participate in the development of the second space center.
An official from HD Hyundai Heavy Industries stated, "The success of the fifth Nuri launch has once again demonstrated the stability and operational capabilities of the launch pad system built with our independent technology. We will contribute to the development of South Korea's space industry based on the experience gained from the Naro and Nuri projects and our capabilities in detailed design for the next-generation launch pad."
Meanwhile, the Nuri rocket is set for its sixth launch in the first half of 2027, which will carry five primary payload satellites, including the 7th to 11th small cluster satellites. Following this, the next-generation launch vehicle is scheduled to begin performance verification launches in 2031, with lunar landing verification missions planned for 2032.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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